With SMILE and LASIK, there is only minor discomfort associated with the surgery, and there is very little post-operative discomfort. With LASEK, the actual procedure is usually only mildly uncomfortable, but the eyes will be moderately uncomfortable for several days after surgery. You’ll be given a variety of medications to use after surgery, as well as full instructions about their use before your operation. It is important to take the pain relief tablets as prescribed as the eye can be quite uncomfortable for the first 72 hours afterwards.